HOCH & CHHO Revamp Old Hotel: Discover the Bold New Tourist Residence!

By Michael Reed

HOCH & CHHO Transform a Former Hotel Into a Bold Tourist Residence

Nestled in the Historic Heart of Montmartre

Located just under the shadow of the renowned Sacré-Cœur in Paris, within the charming district of Montmartre, a once-neglected hotel at 7 rue Paul Albert has undergone a dramatic transformation. Now revitalized by Edgar Suites, this boutique property has been converted into a 12-unit tourist accommodation, boasting 5,382 square feet of redesigned space across five levels. This extensive renovation was a collaborative effort between HOCH (architecture) and CHHO (interior design), both firms co-founded by architects Bertrand Chapus and Thomas Hostache from Paris and Aix-en-Provence respectively. Their vision has brought to life a collection of short-term rental units that echo the elegance of upscale apartments, embedding a fresh narrative in the historic fabric of Montmartre.

Rebirth Following the Pandemic

The hotel’s closure during the global pandemic resulted in an interior labyrinth of dated rooms and worn-out infrastructure. The architectural and design teams from HOCH and CHHO took on the challenge by stripping the building down to its bones and reconstructing it from the inside. They skillfully managed the property’s challenging topography and multi-level layout, employing innovative spatial solutions to comply with accessibility and fire safety standards. Their efforts culminated in the creation of 11 meticulously organized one- and two-bedroom apartments, along with a dedicated space for an on-site concierge, with sizes ranging between 269 to 646 square feet.

Distinctive Design with a Personal Touch

The real distinction of this project lies not only in its architectural ingenuity but also in its unique character. Aligned with Edgar Suites’ goal to provide furnished living spaces that exude a homely feel without sacrificing the conveniences of hotel amenities, CHHO embraced a design ethos that is both whimsical and intentional. They drew inspiration from the groundbreaking Italian movements of the Memphis Group and Archizoom, infusing the interiors with vibrant colors, dynamic patterns, and a retro-futuristic vibe that boldly sets the project apart.

Each unit is crafted around a central theme, employing cubic modules that stack and interlock to create eye-catching headboards and benches. These bespoke features, adorned with rich colors and plush materials from Dedar and Elitis, anchor the visual experience while echoing the postmodern influences that define the residence’s overall aesthetic.

The design continuity is further enhanced by recurring stripe patterns that animate the kitchen backsplashes and enliven the bathroom aesthetics. The attention to detail extends to the fixtures and furniture, with stylish door handles from HK Living and streamlined metal-framed sinks by Simas that optimize space without compromising utility.

In a nod to eclectic styling, the interiors also blend new with old, incorporating secondhand treasures and vintage pieces. CHHO sourced various items from Selency and vintage lighting from Peyrieux. Additionally, bespoke sculptural travertine tables from Beije Avenue, complemented by lighting fixtures from NV Gallery, and diverse artworks sourced from Parallèle Zéro, Little Big Gallery, and Galerie Bessaud—including original creations by François Nugues specifically for this project—add layers of artistic flair.

Communal Spaces That Captivate

The design philosophy extends into the communal areas of the building. The ground floor features a vibrant mix of green and orange tones set against durable natural rubber flooring from Nora. As visitors ascend, they encounter a diverse array of carpets from EGE, both plain and patterned, which pave the way to the upper stories. The lighting, including a vintage suspension piece and Foscarini’s sculptural Bits sconces, is strategically placed to enhance the welcoming ambiance as one enters the residence.

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